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March 11, 2002 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
Contact: NASW Public Affairs Office Lahne Mattas-Curry 202-336-8228 lcurry@naswdc.org Gail Woods-Waller 202-336-8236 gwaller@naswdc.org |
Six Month Anniversary of 9-11 Brings A Host of Unexpected Emotions
WASHINGTONToday marks the six-month anniversary of the tragedies of September 11. Remembering these tragic events may bring a host of unexpected emotions to both the general public and those most intimately affected by the horrors of that day, say the nations social workers.According to Madelyn Miller, ACSW, Chairperson of the Disaster Trauma Working Group at the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) New York City Chapter, "Previous losses and traumas are often times remembered and re-experienced on anniversary dates, sometimes with little preparation."
Across the country a range of complex emotional reactions can be expected and understood as normal responses to the trauma and loss associated with September 11. Many people may feel overwhelmed, revisiting their earlier experiences of trauma; for example, some may jump at the sound of siren, or duck at a low flying plane. Some may feel anxious or despairing, while others may show no reactions at all.
Miller says it is important to normalize such a broad spectrum of reactions to trauma and traumatic loss, and to expect the inevitable complex, uneven, and long duration of individual and collective community reactions after the impact of mass violence, such as that on September 11.
"At this time, it is most important to stay engaged with others and to use support networks, whether among family, friends or colleagues, or in the community," Miller adds. "It can be important, too, to reach out to others in need of social connections and emotional supports. Those who decide to find professional support for their concerns may approach social workers or other mental health professionals."
To find a social worker in your area, please go to www.socialworkers.org and search the NASW Clinical Register.
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), in Washington, DC, is the largest membership organization of professional social workers with 153,000 members. It promotes, develops and protects the practice of social work and social workers. NASW also seeks to enhance the well being of individuals, families and communities through its work and through its advocacy.